Yoho Urges Secretary of State to Attend East Asia Summit

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL) sent a letter to Secretary of State Michael Pompeo urging him to attend the upcoming East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Thailand.  The EAS is an annual forum during which ASEAN countries and other regional players like Russia and the United States come together to discuss initiatives that promote peace and stability in East Asia.  Congressman Yoho gave the following statement:

“China’s increased influence in East Asia is continuing to push the envelope of democracy. Now more than ever, the United States’ presence is needed in the Indo-Pacific theater to show our regional partners and allies the significance of U.S./East Asia commitment.

“The Trump Administration has done a remarkable job of illustrating leadership by enforcing policies and by being present. Secretary Pompeo’s absence at the EAS would hinder important progress the Trump Administration has made in countering China’s political and economic influence.

“Without U.S. representation, other major players, namely China and Russia, will fill the political void. We must not give our adversaries opportunities to assert themselves in important dialogues, like the EAS.”

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